Discovering the Pocatello Idaho Temple
The Pocatello Idaho Temple stands as the 170th dedicated Temple in operation. With its striking design and meaningful history, it has become a significant place within the region.
LDS Temple News Presents Pocatello Idaho Temple
The vision for the Pocatello Idaho Temple was announced on April 2, 2017. This marked a hopeful moment for many. The groundbreaking, which included the site dedication, took place on March 16, 2019. Elder Wilford W. Andersen had the honor of presiding over that event. The public open house occurred from September 18 to October 23, 2021, attracting a remarkable 250,721 attendees. Finally, the Pocatello Idaho Temple was dedicated on November 7, 2021, by Apostle M. Russell Ballard, who expressed heartfelt blessings for those who would visit and serve within its walls.
Architectural Features
The Pocatello Idaho Temple occupies 10.94 acres and features an impressive exterior made from white granite sourced from China. The design includes a central spire adorned with a gold-leafed Angel Moroni statue, commanding attention in the skyline.
Size and Layout
- Total Area: 71,125 square feet
- Height: 194 feet 6 inches
- Elevation: 4,989 feet
- Three stories high
Inside, the Temple comprises four instruction rooms, four sealing rooms, and one baptistry. The chapel area is accentuated by a beautiful stained glass depiction of Jesus Christ holding a lamb.
Scenic Surroundings
Beyond its impressive architecture, the Pocatello Idaho Temple is surrounded by meticulously landscaped grounds. Over 500 trees and thousands of flowers enhance the area, featuring species like the Norwegian sunset maple and sawleaf zelkova. Shrubs such as English lavender and snowberry add vibrant colors, while white firs and alpine firs frame the perimeter, echoing the natural beauty of the nearby mountains.
Accessibility and Visibility
Situated just east of a stake center, the Pocatello Idaho Temple is easily visible from Interstate 15 and Interstate 86, making it a prominent feature of the landscape.
Historical Significance to Idaho
This Temple is the sixth built in Idaho. Interestingly, Pocatello had its plans for a Temple back in the 1930s, but challenges delayed its realization until 2017.
Artwork and Design Details
An exquisite grand staircase clad in travertine limestone greets visitors upon entry. The stained glass windows beautifully depict wildflowers native to the Idaho mountain desert, including the syringa, the state flower, and the bitterroot. The color palette represents the natural landscape, with shades of sage, gold, pink, and coral inspired by the region’s scenery.
The Pocatello Idaho Temple is not just a building; it stands as a significant addition to Idaho and reflects the rich cultural heritage and spirit of the area.